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November 8, 2017

Prolific artist and Spelman professor Tamara Natalie Madden passed away suddenly Saturday, November 4th, just two weeks after being diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, according to a GoFundMe campaign set up by family members. Named one of The Grio’s 40 amazing Black artists to watch in 2014, Madden’s work was a masterclass in Black beauty and Black talent, and it was exhibited across the globe. Despite this notable career, few outlets are covering her passing.

After a rare diagnosis and kidney failure that left her on dialysis in 1997, Madden discovered her passion for art, and credited it with getting her through that difficult moment in her life. Already a proven fighter, disease overcame this time around, and she is survived by a daughter.

“No one is more affected by this sudden loss than her only child, Nini, a senior at Georgia Southern University who also works three jobs,” the GoFundMe reads. “Tam instilled in her daughter a drive to succeed, and Nini has found her passion: she is pursuing a degree in education with a minor in theater, and has just started her teaching program. As we all try to cope with this sudden loss, we ask that you please give what you can to support Nini through this difficult time.”

In addition to the fundraiser, you can also support by purchasing copies of her book or prints from her website.

The last post the artist made on Instagram is of teaching students at the UK at the Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, where you can witness her instilling a drive to succeed to even more young people: